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Related Experiment Videos

Modification of leech behavior patterns by reserpine-induced amine depletion.

B A O'Gara1, H Chae, L B Latham

  • 1Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22901.

The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience
|January 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

Reserpine depletes serotonin and dopamine in leeches, affecting biting and swimming behaviors. While biting recovers, swimming duration increases, suggesting differential amine level requirements for behavior.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Animal Behavior
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Serotonin and dopamine are key neurotransmitters in invertebrates.
  • Reserpine is known to deplete monoamine levels in various species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of reserpine on serotonin and dopamine levels in the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis).
  • To examine the impact of reserpine-induced amine depletion on leech biting and swimming behaviors.
  • To explore methods for restoring amine levels and associated behaviors.

Main Methods:

  • Reserpine was administered via injection to leeches.
  • Neurotransmitter levels were quantified using High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).
  • Behavioral assays assessed biting and swimming responses.

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  • Leeches were exposed to various amines and antagonists in pond water.

    • Main Results:

    • Reserpine drastically reduced CNS serotonin and dopamine levels, with effects lasting up to 6 months.
    • Biting behavior was initially eliminated but recovered while amine levels remained low.
    • Swimming activity duration unexpectedly increased after reserpine treatment.
    • Biting behavior recovery was achieved with serotonin or dopamine baths, but increased swim duration persisted.

    Conclusions:

    • Low levels of serotonin and dopamine are critical for leech biting and swimming.
    • The minimal amine levels required for swimming are lower than those for biting.
    • Reserpine's effects on behavior highlight the complex role of monoamines in neural circuits.